An Artful Escape Sheri Biritz

This is the second segment of my doubleheader, a two part series discussing the paintbrush flower, it’s history, facts and legends behind this gem of a flower. We drove into the legend behind the story with a children’s book. The story is retold and illustrated by Tomie DePaola, acclaimed children’s book author and illustrator.

Discover this native flower and it’s beautiful attributes. Today’s episode allows us to explore historical facts about the Paintbrush Flower and is the first segment of a two part series creating a double header this week! Tomorrow’s episode will discuss one of the legends behind the “Indian Paintbrush”.

From Claude Monet’s Water Lilies to Thomas Moran’s Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone we discuss how natural lighting plays an integral part in revealing color in your art. These two artist both enhanced the scenes before them by painting exactly what they saw. Landscapes before them revealed a different color palette depending on the time of day they painted. The lighting also changed with the time of year, meaning which season they were in. For your own art pieces I explain how to use natural lighting to your benefit to reveal your paintings truest colors. Read more about Thomas Moran on National Park Service website here: https://www.nps.gov/articles/thomas-moran.htm

In honor of Earth Day I’m sharing the essence behind my paintings. Discussing the direct correlation from living in Yellowstone and the textures and colors I use in my paintings. I share how my art is influenced from the spiritual connection I have to the earth and all her glory. http://www.pbs.org/edens/yellowstone/

Give yourself permission to play by creating a wind chime. This project is a relaxing way to bring the elements of nature into your outdoor space and a cool piece of art. The subtle sound of the wooden sticks clanking against one another reminds me of the boat docks at the lake. It’s a fun way to get ready for summer. Supplies Needed: 6 sticks, acrylic paint, 4-5 brushes, rope twine or cotton twine, water jar, paint tray, paper towels, scissors and 2 brown paper bags to protect surface.

Are you giving yourself space & time to recharge your energy tank? If you take a little time each week to pour into yourself, you will have more to pour into others. As they say in an airplane, put your oxygen mask on before others. This episode covers art nooks, self care & even creative blocks. Step out of the hustle & put yourself first for a few minutes. Oxygen? Yes please!